Six F-16 fighter jets transferred from Norway to Ukraine are currently undergoing maintenance and repairs in Belgium. Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre announced that the first of these aircraft will be ready for deployment soon.
This statement was made during a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Oslo on April 14. Støre clarified that the F-16s provided to Ukraine were not in active service in Norway, as the country has been utilizing F-35 jets for several years. Consequently, these aircraft required significant refurbishment before they could be integrated into the Ukrainian Air Force.
“Other countries that have supplied F-16s did so with aircraft that were still in active service, allowing for quicker deployment,” said Støre.
According to the Prime Minister, the jets are now owned by Ukraine and are undergoing technical servicing in Belgium, as per an agreement that also involves the United States and the United Kingdom.
“I believe the first of these aircraft will be operational soon,” Støre added.
President Zelensky expressed gratitude for Norway’s substantial support from the outset of the conflict. He thanked Norway for the six F-16s and acknowledged the necessity of the repairs, indicating that Ukraine anticipates the arrival of the aircraft once the maintenance is complete.
Norway has transferred six F-16 jets to Ukraine, which are currently being repaired in Belgium. Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre confirmed that the first jets will be operational soon, while President Zelensky expressed appreciation for Norway's ongoing support.